Nintendo Labo: Remote-controlled car

This week, as promised in our previous blog on Nintendo Labo, we’re looking at a second model that we’ve built and experimented with: the remote-controlled cars.

ASSEMBLY

Like the fishing rod, the RC cars are simple and lots of fun to assemble. This is also the model that’s easiest for younger children to build. Assembly takes only a few minutes. When you’re done, you’ve got 2 small, super-cute vehicles to play with.

PLAY EXPERIENCE

RC cars are powered by small vibrating HD motors inside the two Joy-Con controllers. These vibrations, combined with its special geometry, allow the vehicle move to the right or left when only one controller is activated, and forward when both motors vibrate at the same time.

On the Nintendo Switch console’s touchscreen, there’s a digital interface that serves as a simple remote control – ultra-minimalist and intuitive. “Action” commands are clear and inviting.

We also discovered that the infrared camera on the right-hand controller allows the vehicle read its environment in real time. This feature opens up a world of possibilities, like steering the vehicle from a distance – even in the dark! You can also set the vehicle in “auto-drive,” and the car will travel by following reflective stickers with its IR reader.

Nintendo also invites us to challenge our friends in sumo-style matches. The goal is to push the other player’s car out of the play area. The most interesting aspect of this game is that players can customize their cars with additional pieces to make them more stable, impressive, or formidable to their opponent. Nintendo provides the basic pieces but encourages us to create an arsenal using our own ideas.

SO, WHAT'S THE OVERALL VERDICT?

Simple but effective. While this may not be the interactive game of the century, its ability to generate live play off-screen, unlike the other projects in the set, makes it especially appealing and entertaining. A toy that’ll go wherever your imagination takes you.

Now, who’s ready for a 2- or 3-way sumo car match? Free beer for the winner.